Information on the uses, advantages, and limitations of different types of test items is presented for college faculty, along with guidelines for developing test items. Included is advice on: choosing between objective and subjective test items, when essay tests or objective tests are appropriate, and when either essay or objective tests can be used. Advantages and disadvantages of using the following types of test items are identified: multiple-choice, true-false, matching, completion, essay, problem solving, and performance. Suggestions for writing each type of test items and examples are provided. In writing multiple-choice test items, consideration is given to both the stem, which identifies the question or problem, and the response alternatives. Both the extended-response and short-answer essays are covered, and suggestions for scoring essay items are included. Two methods for collecting feedback on the quality of test items are addressed: self-review and student evaluation of test item quality. A checklist for teacher evaluation of test items is provided, with sections for each type of test. The Instructor and Course Evaluation System questionnaire items for student rating of the quality of tests items are also included. (SW)